3 Signs of Crack Use in Men

Learn more about crack addict behavior, signs of crack use in men, and how detox and rehab can help at White Sands Treatment Center

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) males are more likely to abuse illicit drugs than females. Statistics reveal that 1.9 million individuals use cocaine each month, with men abusing cocaine more than women. Why is crack cocaine abuse more prevalent in men and what are the signs of crack use in men? Let’s take a closer look at the draw of crack cocaine in men.

Crack cocaine is a potent stimulant that is one of the most abused drugs in the U.S. and is a popular recreational drug among adolescents and young adults. Males are known to experiment more with drugs and take more risks than females, especially when they are young, and they will think nothing of using crack cocaine to get high. Crack cocaine floods the brain with the neurotransmitter dopamine which creates feelings of euphoria while also diminishing the perception of pain. The drug creates an increase in energy, mental focus, talkativeness and concentration, while also enhancing motor skills.

Cocaine can be smoked, snorted or injected and popular street names for the drug are: coke, toot, flake, snow, C, and blow. Cocaine is frequently mixed with other substances like corn starch, talcum powder, sugar, and other drugs or substances. When cocaine is purchased illegally on the street, the buyer is often unaware of the ingredients that are actually present in the drug. This places the buyer at risk for serious health complications, or even death from overdose by ingesting a lethal mix. Using alcohol, or other drugs, together with cocaine may also prove to be a lethal mix. Crack is made from cocaine that dissolves into dried crystals.

Enhanced SexCrack addict behavior very often reflects the belief that crack cocaine is an aphrodisiac that enhances sexual functions and pleasure. Men find that the stimulant effect of crack cocaine allows them to perform better and for longer periods of time. The euphoric effects of the drug add to the intense sexual pleasure that the drug creates. Some homosexual men who use the drug have been vocal in the past regarding crack sex parties that last for three days or more. During these parties, they will enjoy a variety of sexual partners while high on the drug. Eventually, they will crash as they come down from the drug high, and the party is over until next time.

Behavior
Crack addicts are under the influence of a strong stimulant drug that will change their personality and behavior in various ways. Some crack addict behavior can include:

Crack EffectsCrack drug effects vary and can be dangerous to the addict’s metal and physical health. A crack addict can experience damage to the brain that can lead to psychiatric disorders. Other crack drug effects include: hardening of the arteries, stroke, heart attack, kidney damage, and an increase in heart rate, body temperature and blood pressure.

Crack addicts can also develop a ruptured aorta or heart muscle damage. Weight loss is common among crack users and they can develop malnutrition as a result. Crack cocaine causes chemical changes in the brain that can lead to the development of Parkinson’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other behavioral changes and psychoses. Cocaine unfavorably affects the blood supply throughout the body, and places the addict at risk for a stroke or brain damage. As the crack diminishes in its effects on the body and mind, the addict may experience intense drug cravings and feel sad and exhausted.

Addiction
Crack drug effects create one of the strongest psychological dependence of all drugs. It affects the reward center of the brain, and the addict can quickly build up a tolerance to the drug. When crack is taken with other drugs or alcohol, it can create extremely dangerous and life-threatening consequences. Addiction can come easily to the crack user and he will find himself in serious trouble that he is unable to get out of on his own.

If you are addicted to crack cocaine, you can get the proper help you need to recover from your addiction and lead a sober, healthy life. Make plans to begin your recovery treatment today at White Sands.

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If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.

About the Author

Mark is a proud alumni member of WhiteSands Treatment. After living a life of chaos, destruction and constant let downs, Mark was able to make a complete turnaround that sparked a new way of life. He is serious about his recovery along with helping others. At WhiteSands Treatment, we offer support to you in your homes or when you are out living in your daily lives.